By Robert DiPano
CJ Contributor
GRAND BAHAMA — The island of Grand Bahama offers beautiful scenery, beautiful beaches and ideal settings for good, old-fashioned Caribbean relaxation. But if you’re feeling adventurous and want to get out and explore the island, make sure you check off these six things on your trip.
Port Lucaya Marketplace
Despite the island’s refreshing lack of commercialization, get your fix by grabbing a “Gully Wash” and following the live music to the bandstand as you make your way through the 130 bars, restaurants, shops, and vendors situated on this 5 acre marina-side complex.
Fish fry at Smith’s Point
Wednesday night is fish fry night for Grand Bahamians. Head to Outriggers and sample the fried local snapper with rice, beans, and coleslaw. It’s ok if you overeat because the music will move you to dance all night with the locals.
Grand Bahama Nature Tours
Whether it’s a private Jeep safari tour of the island, an off-road ATV excursion, a kayaking trip through mangroves, or a snorkel tour of Peterson Cay, Grand Bahamas Nature Tour’s friendly and experienced guides are sure to deliver a memorable experience.
Garden of the Groves
Twelve acres of lush botanical gardens, flowing waterfalls, and indigenous wildlife provide the perfect backdrop for exchanging vows or for nature lovers to meditate on their trip. Be sure to stop at the café for a cocktail and lunch and don’t miss the shops featuring the work of local artists, perfumes, and neem-based cosmetics.
Ben’s Cave
Divers and eco-tourists alike can explore one of the world’s longest surveyed caves located within Lucayan National Park across from Gold Rock beach.
The Reef Golf Course at the Grand Lucayan
Featuring 13 holes with water and 57 sand traps, try not to get shipwrecked on this very strategic Robert Trent Jones Jr. -designed inland-links course.